Tree Felling Licence

What is this licence?

Removing trees or thinning forestry requires a licence, unless the planned felling is exempt under the law. This protects the environment and ensures that forestry activities are sustainable.

Exemptions

Not all circumstances listed always apply. For example, when trees are more than 150 years old or are close to:

• Certain protected structures, monuments or archaeological sites
• Specific environmentally sensitive areas

In all cases, the landowner or the person felling the tree must ensure an exemption applies to their particular circumstances. If you live in an urban area, you may need to contact your local authority to see if there is a preservation order on the tree.

When do I need it?

You may need this during the pre-construction phase of your project.

How to apply

Application forms must be posted to Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford, Y35 PN52.

• Download the application form

Fees

The Forestry (Amendment) Regulations, 2020 (SI No. 417 of 2020) introduced fees for forestry licence applications. Fees are €20 per licence application.

Payment can be made by sending one of the following with your application, payable to Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine:

• A valid cheque
• Bank draft
• Postal order
• Money order

Do not send bank notes in the post. Payment that is found to be invalid will not be accepted. Third party cheques, bank drafts, postal or money orders cannot be accepted.